← All names

Francis

Boy name · 1,386 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Francis: 1,386 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 109 births in 1975.

Francis is a classic name with Latin roots, derived from Franciscus meaning “Frenchman” or “free one.” Its best-known bearer is St Francis of Assisi, the 13th-century Italian friar and patron saint of animals and the environment, whose gentle spirit inspired the name’s enduring popularity. Another notable Francis is the scientist and philosopher Sir Francis Bacon, a key figure in the Enlightenment. The name also has geographical echoes: the California city of San Francisco takes its name from the saint. In the twentieth century, Pope Francis brought the name renewed global attention, while its feminine counterpart Frances—and the common nickname Frank—have remained steadfastly popular across generations.